South East Cornwall is preparing for the onset of Storm Brian

The Met Office says the storm has the potential to bring strong winds and large coastal waves to Cornwall later tonight and throughout tomorrow.

A yellow alert for winds and waves is in place from 4am tomorrow.

Cornwall Council says staff are on alert and liaising with other agencies to take action if necessary.

During this evening and especially on Saturday, a windy spell of weather is expected across all areas, especially over hills, moors and coasts.

The winds will blow in from between the south and southwest for much of the day, changing during Saturday evening to blowing in from between the southwest and west.

Around coasts the wind will be strongest with gusts typically around 50 to 60mph which could lead to large waves, swell and surge.

The advice is to keep safe and stay away from the coast, beaches, sea walls, promenades and piers. 

The public are advised to take extra care near the coasts, especially at high tide, on beaches, sea walls, promenades where there is the potential for coastal wave overtopping and spray which may affect coastal roads.  

You can report highway issues, like fallen trees blocking the highway and floods on roads, by calling 0300 1234 222 - press 1.

The Environment Agency is urging people to remain vigilant to potential flooding.

Yesterday, EA staff set up temporary flood barriers in Fowey designed to give Fowey better protection from potential coastal flooding.

This type of flood defence has been used to prevent flooding from rivers for a number of years but this is the first time they have been used on the Cornish coast.

Environment Agency teams have been mobilised across the area to check on flood defences, clear any river blockages and closely monitor river levels. These teams have been working around the clock to reduce the risk of flooding, and will be out in force over the weekend.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to sign up to flood warnings on the Environment Agency website. People can also call Floodline on 0345 988 1188.

The RNLI is urging people to stay safe at the coast.

The charity is advising people to stay away from the water during the storms, give waves a wide berth, and be aware that unexpected big waves can easily catch people out. 

Steve Instance said: ‘Storm Brian has the potential to cause more damage along our coast than ex hurricane Ophelia as it is also combined with large spring tides and a westerly wind direction.’